New York Declares State of Emergency Over SNAP Cuts

Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a state of emergency in New York to counter a major reduction in federal food assistance, a decision that threatens millions of residents with food insecurity. The governor announced a $65 million state funding package to strengthen emergency food programs and provide an estimated 40 million meals to low-income New Yorkers.

This decisive action comes as the federal government freezes billions of dollars in emergency Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funds, leaving states across the country scrambling to support vulnerable populations.

Protecting Millions from Hunger

Nearly 3 million New Yorkers are expected to lose vital food aid beginning November 1, as the ongoing federal shutdown and delayed emergency funding create new strains on local food systems. Governor Hochul said the state “will not stand by while Washington’s inaction pushes families into hunger.”

State officials warn that the crisis could trigger a broader public health emergency, harm small grocery stores, and devastate local farmers who rely on SNAP-supported food purchases.

Strategic Use of Emergency Funds

The newly allocated $65 million will be divided between two core programs:

• $40 million for the Hunger Prevention and Nutrition Assistance Program (HPNAP), which supports around 2,700 emergency food providers statewide.

• $25 million for the Nourish New York initiative, which redirects surplus agricultural products like milk, apples, and vegetables from local farms to food banks and community groups.

Together, these efforts aim to secure the state’s food supply chain while ensuring healthy meals reach those most in need.

Mobilizing State Resources

Beyond funding, the governor’s plan mobilizes Empire State Service Corps and SUNY Service Corps volunteers to help food banks meet growing demand. Hundreds of State University of New York (SUNY) students already assist their peers in applying for SNAP benefits and volunteer at campus food pantries.

By expanding paid hours and creating short-term emergency roles, the state aims to quickly scale up its response to the escalating need.

Legal and Nationwide Action

New York’s total investment in emergency food relief now exceeds $106 million, including $41 million previously allocated earlier this year. The state, along with 24 others, has filed a lawsuit against the federal government demanding the release of withheld food aid.

Governor Hochul also joined 20 governors in a formal appeal urging President Biden to reverse the current policy. Leaders across education, health, and social services sectors have echoed the call.

Dr. James McDonald, New York’s Health Commissioner, emphasized that “access to nutritious food is essential to health and dignity,” while Education Commissioner Betty A. Rosa warned that hunger directly affects students’ ability to learn and thrive.

Building a Resilient Food Network

New York is also investing in school-based food centers and has launched a statewide online portal connecting residents with food aid resources.

Governor Hochul’s message is clear: New York will protect its people. In the face of federal cuts and uncertainty, the state is building a stronger, more resilient safety net to ensure that no New Yorker goes hungry.